Trees have always been a symbol of resilience for me. Even as a little child, I remember lying on a rock under a huge peepal tree in our front yard.
I have always wanted to hug a tree but never had the courage. I know there are tree huggers sound the world, who meditate with trees. There was the Chipko Movement. I know all that but still, to do it in the places I often visit, amidst people, well, I didn’t have the gumption for it.
Until now. As I’m nearing 50, I’m becoming less and less bothered about what other people think of me. It’s quite liberating! Yesterday, I just spontaneously hugged a tree, held my forehead against it and closed my eyes.
And the experience was astounding. In just a few breaths as I settled in, I felt deeply connected, strongly grounded, almost like physical support from the tree’s roots and trunk, and felt this wave of all-embracing love. Gratitude poured out. And wishes for the world. I was amazed at the depth of the connection. It was sacred.
And I wondered, why have I kept myself away from this beautiful experience? Well, regret is a pointless emotion and nothing happens before its time.
I guess it’s time now. And I am blessed to connect with one of our oldest ancestors, embraced by the energy of interbeing.
May we all be blessed.